ecdysis (moulting)
1. The periodic loss of the outer cuticle of arthropods. It starts with the reabsorption of some materials in the inner part of the old cuticle and the formation of a new soft cuticle. The remains of the old cuticle then split; the animal emerges and absorbs water or swallows air and increases in size while the new cuticle is still soft. This cuticle is then hardened with chitin and lime salts. In insects and crustaceans ecdysis is controlled by the hormone ecdysone. See also eclosion hormone; ecdysis-triggering hormone.

2. The periodic shedding of the outer layer of the epidermis of reptiles (except crocodiles) to allow growth to occur.

ecdysis The periodic shedding of the exoskeleton by some invertebrates, or of the outer skin by some Amphibia and Reptilia.

ecdysis Periodic shedding of the exoskeleton by some invertebrates, or of the outer skin by some Amphibia and Reptilia.

ecdysis The periodic shedding of the exoskeleton by some invertebrates, or of the outer skin by some amphibians (see Amphibia) and reptiles.

ecdysis (ek-dy-sis) n. the act of shedding skin; desquamation.